Yesterday was the birthday of the wonderful Sir David Attenborough. I know I’m a day late, but here’s a poem I wote about the great man a few years ago. He was my inspiration to get into marine science, and I’m still addicted to anything he does. This is about one of the most memorable scenes ever filmed (in my opinion anyway!).

Patagonia

Crystal blue ocean, pure;
epitome of calm.
Sea lion pups play in the surf,
testing the waters.
The Trials of Life? None
to see; but what beneath?
A shadow, a flash of black,
and then:
six tonnes of muscle, flex,
rage onto the beach.
One flick of the tail:
one sea lion pup less.
Back in England, a child,
bright-eyed, stares at the screen.
“This Mr Attenborough –
does he need an assistant?”